The Andhra Pradesh Government has rolled out a new WhatsApp-based platform that offers as many as 161 services across various departments. The service, called ‘Mana Mitra,’ was launched on Thursday by IT Minister Nara Lokesh, marking a significant shift towards digital governance in the state.
The new service allows residents to access essential Government services by simply sending a message to a dedicated WhatsApp number, 9552300009. By doing so, citizens can bypass long queues and unnecessary visits to Government offices, making it easier for them to obtain necessary certificates, resolve grievances, and manage tasks related to municipal, revenue, and other public services.
The launch event was attended by key figures from Meta India, including Sandhya Devanathan, Vice President and Head, and Ravi Garg, Director and India Head at WhatsApp. Both leaders spoke on the importance of collaboration between the Andhra Pradesh Government and Meta in making these services accessible through digital platforms.
Nara Lokesh emphasised that this initiative would significantly reduce the need for physical presence at Government offices, offering quicker access to a variety of services. The state Government had finalised an agreement with Meta in October 2024, and this initiative is seen as an important step towards making public services more efficient and transparent.
How To Access AP Govt Services On WhatsApp
The services available through WhatsApp include offerings from various sectors, including Endowments, Energy, Municipal Administration, APSRTC, Anna Canteens, and more. While 161 services are available at the moment, the Government plans to expand the platform to include services from 36 additional departments.
To access the service, users need to follow a simple four-step process:
- Save the number 9552300009 on their phones.
- Send a message to initiate access to the service portal.
- Choose from the displayed list of services, such as electricity bills, APSRTC bookings, police services, and more.
- Once a service is selected, users will be directed to the appropriate payment platform or service page.
This system is designed to be user-friendly and inclusive, with services displayed in Telugu for easier understanding. The initiative is especially beneficial for rural populations, ensuring that even people in remote areas can access Government services without the hassle of travelling to offices.
With the introduction of this digital platform, Andhra Pradesh is taking a major step toward enhancing the efficiency and accessibility of public services, ensuring that residents can easily avail themselves of essential services with just a few clicks.
